Auto Parts: where is the inside rear view mirror dimming control?, rear view mirror, bottom of the mirror

Question
I bought a "new" used rear view mirror for my 1999 Lincoln Continental, because the auto dimming feature wasn't working on the old one. It doesn't work on the new one either. The "Workshop Manual" shows that there is a dial to set the control from off to positions I, II, and III, but I can't find that dial anywhere. I would like to make sure that the control being set to off isn't the reason it's not working. I took apart the small box at the bottom of the mirror, but that only houses a circuit board. At least when I took that box apart and put it back together, the compass began working again . . . it works off and on when it wants to. The Workshop Manual basically says that when the auto dim doesn't work, it either has a blown fuse (if that was the case the compass wouldn't ever work), the control is set to off, or there is something wrong with the circuitry. I don't have a way of checking the circuitry, so the only other thing I feel I might be able to do is make sure the control isn't set to off. The only dash controls are turning the lights off and on, setting the headlights delay and controlling the panel dim and there's no option for the rear view mirror on the onboard computer options. I've looked under the dash but don't see anything that would apply. Any ideas? Thanks.

Answer
Hi Rubye,

Usually the auto-dim feature is on/off only. My first check would be to make SURE the power and ground are securely connected and working before continuing. Then I would use a separate power lead direct from the battery and a known-good ground and while out of the vehicle, I would power the mirror up and see if it is the issue.

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Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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